Hooper’s partner is expecting a baby before tomorrow’s lunchtime showdown at Derby County. Carvalhal is optimistic Hooper will feature at the iPro Stadium as the Owls look to get back to winning ways.

Victory for Carvalhal’s sixth-placed would put them nine points ahead of nearest rivals Cardiff City, who host relegated Bolton Wanderers later that day.

Meanwhile, Owls midfielder Barry Bannan has been included in the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Championship Team of the Year. Since moving to Hillsborough last August, the Scotland international has starred in the midfield engine room. Bannan, who is primarily left-footed, has clocked up 36 appearances, hitting two goals.

It is the second year in a row a Wednesday player has been selected in the team, which is voted for by the players. Goalkeeper Keiren Westwood made the cut last year after recording 17 league clean sheets.